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Hong Kong, China

The former British colony is a study in contrasts, of East and West, rural and urban, traditional and modern. With historic and religious sights and world-class shopping and dining, Hong Kong is endlessly fascinating.

Hong Kong, China

Port of Call

The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss

The Pearl of the Orient is chock-full of eccentricities, but one of its most charming is the sight of birds in wooden cages displayed like hanging plants outside homes and shops. You'll see them all over town, but you can also find them all in one place at the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden. A stroll through its courtyards to the lilting strains of prized Chinese songbirds is a must. Just ask the locals who take their own feathered friends there for regular outings.

Sporting Adventures

Hiking is all the rage in Hong Kong and there's no shortage of scenic routes to explore. Just head to Lantau Island and the MacLehose Trail in the New Territories. Or you could get your swing in gear, because golf is extremely popular here too. In fact, Hong Kong boasts some of the finest public facilities on the planet. Then again, you might want to rent a bike at Tolo Harbour and tool around the city's vast circuit of bike paths.

Get a Taste of Local Flavor

For an authentic taste of Chinese life, try yum cha, which combines the ancient custom of tea drinking with another Chinese tradition: dim sum. Along with your oolong, you'll get a good sampling of Hong Kong cuisine, including congee, a thick rice porridge with meat plus your choice of preserved eggs, seafood, gingko or vegetable.

Shopping for Bargains

Contrary to popular belief, there's a lot more to Hong Kong than shopping - although the retail therapy here is arguably among the world's best. Besides the sheer magnitude of the shopping scene, at least two other factors contribute to the exuberant consumerism the city is known for: it's a duty-free port and there's no sales tax. Clothing is one of the best buys, especially custom-made suits and designer fashions. Porcelain, jade and silks are good bets as well.

Local Currency

The basic unit of currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HK$). Visit banks for the best exchange rates. Look for ATMs at banks, MTR subway stations and the Star Ferry concourse in both Tsim Sha Tsui and Central Hong Kong.